microPlastics in Colorado waterways and what we can do about it
Wednesday, January 21st
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Details
Details
Join us to learn about the invisible crisis flowing through our rivers and the startling reality that microplastics are now found in 100% of tested Colorado waterways. From their origins in oil and gas to their permanence in our canyons, these microscopic pollutants act as "toxin magnets" that trick wildlife into ingestion, leading to a toxic buildup that eventually impacts human health as it moves up the food chain.
Rachel Jaeger from Environment Colorado will guide us through this broader crisis before focusing on plastic pellets—the next threat we can tackle to make sure we protect the Upper Colorado and other important Colorado waterways. These rice-sized materials are frequently transported by rail through our most sensitive river corridors, posing a constant risk of spills. You will discover how we, the whitewater community, can help safeguard our rivers.
Where & When
Where & When
Date: Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Time
6:00 pm - 6:30 pm (Social hour)
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm (Presentation )
Location: Down River Equipment, 11937 W Interstate 70 Frontage Rd N, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Can't make it in person? Click here to join virtually.
Meeting ID: 843 4299 2950
Passcode: 685105
Dial by your location: 719-359-4580
Why this matters
Why this matters
Our rivers are more than just a place to raft—they are delicate ecosystems currently under threat from microplastics that make their way into our waterways.
The Problem:
Deceptive Danger: Because microplastics resemble natural food sources like fish eggs, aquatic life and birds frequently ingest them, leading to internal damage.
Toxic Sponges: They attract and carry harmful bacteria and chemicals like DDT.
Local Impact: Frequent spills from transport trains contaminate the very canyons and rivers we love.
About the Presenter
About the Presenter
Rachel Jaeger leads the charge against plastic pollution for Environment Colorado. Known for their work protecting Brown’s Canyon and establishing wildlife crossings, Environment Colorado uses research and advocacy to keep our air and water clean. Rachel will discuss the preventative work being done in our state and how we can stop the spill before it starts.
In her role, Rachel spearheads campaigns aimed at reducing waste and safeguarding Colorado's ecosystems. Her expertise focuses on the "unseen" threats to our water, from preventing microplastic pollution to addressing the industrial plastic spills that impact our river corridors.
Based in Denver, Rachel’s commitment to the environment is driven by her love for the Colorado outdoors. When she isn’t advocating for cleaner waterways, you can find her exploring the very trails and rivers she works so hard to protect.
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